2023-10-28 09:50:08
Before the Formula 1 race in Mexico, the organizers are calling for more respect for the drivers. Max Verstappen sees a bigger problem.
Mexico City.
Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen wants more respect and protection for athletes after the recent hostilities.
“It’s a general problem in many sports that needs to be looked at and improved,” said the Red Bull driver before the Mexican Grand Prix on Sunday (9 p.m./Sky). The 26-year-old was recently booed and whistled after his victory in Austin, probably especially by fans of his teammate Sergio Pérez.
“Needs to be better regulated”
“It’s okay to support your favorite driver. But you also have to respect your competitors,” said long-time winner Verstappen. There is also insults on social media. “People who don’t have to show their faces can say whatever they want. And that’s not just the case in our sport. There needs to be better regulation of what can be said, done and written about people,” said Verstappen.
In Mexico City, the Dutchman is also accompanied by two security guards. Verstappen explained that this above all helps him to get through the very full paddock and to his hotel more quickly. He said he felt safe in Mexico.
No internal rivalry
Verstappen rejected speculation about an intensified internal rivalry with his recently unfortunate teammate Pérez. “This is made up. Checo and I get along well,” he said. Pérez had also previously assured that there was no off-track rivalry between the two Red Bull drivers. “The media likes to create this rivalry, but it’s not right. And it’s important that the fans understand that,” said the 33-year-old.
The race organizers in Mexico are promoting better behavior among fans with a campaign called “#racespect” and are opposing insults and attacks of any kind against pilots. Verstappen and Pérez can also be seen on the posters. (dpa)
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